Elaine Gates Charney

Elaine was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend who lived her life with an open and loving heart. Known for her generosity, warmth, and gentle acceptance of all, she left everyone she encountered feeling better for having known her. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of sharing in her journey.

Her greatest joy in life was her family. Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph John Charney. She is survived by three devoted sons, Joseph John Charney Jr., Michael William Charney, and Troy Matthew Charney; her three loving daughters-in-law, whom she embraced as her own; and her seven cherished grandchildren, who brought decades of light and happiness into her life.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, located at 625 Magdala Place, Apex, NC 27502. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather for a reception immediately following the mass to share memories and celebrate Elaine’s life.

In lieu of flowers, we would be grateful if you would consider making a donation to the Frederick Douglass High School Football Program, where Elaine spent many memorable nights cheering on the Eagles to victory. Football was a special part of her life, and all donations will be used to purchase equipment for the team in Elaine’s memory.

Checks can be made payable to:

Frederick Douglass High School Football

8000 Croom Road

Upper Marlboro, MD 20772

Please be sure to include “Elaine Charney” in the memo line so that your donation can be directed to the football team in her memory.